What does John 13:32 mean?

Explanation

John 13:32 speaks to the deep reciprocal relationship between Jesus and God the Father, emphasizing the glorification of Jesus as part of God's plan.

It implies a mutual glorification: God is glorified in Jesus, and Jesus is glorified in God.

This glorification began with Jesus' earthly ministry and would be fully realized in his death, resurrection, and ascension.

The term "glorify" extends beyond honor to include the full revelation and manifestation of divine nature and character.

Historical Context

John 13:32 is set during the Last Supper, a crucial moment shortly before Jesus’ crucifixion.

This was a final gathering with His disciples, during which He imparted key teachings and prepared them for His departure.

The Gospel of John, written towards the end of the 1st century AD, reflects early Christian theology and the Johannine community's understanding of Jesus' divine nature and mission.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse presents several concepts of interest:

The Divine Economy - It illustrates the interconnected workings of the Trinity, particularly how the Son's mission on Earth reflects and magnifies the Father's glory. 2.

Christology - It affirms the divine identity of Jesus, as His glorification is directly linked with God's. 3.

Eschatology - Some see this as foreshadowing the end-times when God's glory will be fully unveiled in Christ.

Practical Applications

In terms of practical application, believers may draw inspiration from this verse to live in a way that brings glory to God, knowing that in doing so, they are following the example set by Jesus.

It also offers comfort in the promise of divine glorification and proximity to God, as believers are unified with Christ.

Cross-References

• John 17:1 – "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:"
• Philippians 2:9 – "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:"
• Hebrews 2:9 – "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour;"

Language Study

The key term in the original Greek text is δοξάζω (doxazō), which means "to glorify, honor, or bestow glory upon." The term encompasses both giving and receiving respect and majesty, implying a visible manifestation of God's character.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader cultural and religious context of the time, glorification was often associated with kings and gods.

The notion that a deity could be glorified through suffering and death, as is central to Christian understanding, would have been counter-cultural to the Greco-Roman glorification of power and victory.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community generally doesn't comment directly on theological concepts like glorification.

However, science does study the psychological aspects of ritual and belief, noting the benefits of communal practices and expressions of faith, which can encompass striving for a life that glorifies something greater than oneself.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians offer varied perspectives on this verse:

• Some emphasize the pre-existing glory of Jesus before his incarnation, as part of the Trinity.
• Others focus on the "straightway" aspect, noting this points to the immediate nature of Jesus' glorification following His crucifixion, dispelling any notion that His glory was diminished by His death.
• A common consensus is that this verse captures the essence of the Gospel message: the Son of God came to earth, was glorified through His life, death, and resurrection, thus glorifying God the Father and providing a path to salvation for humanity.